blakey
Active member
It's very difficult to get hold of yew down here. it has to be imported, and it's usually very expensive. I've been wanting to shoot a yew bow for ages. The wood seems to have a mystic, if not mythic status. I've been able to try Osage, and Wych Elm, and a Bamboo composite. A couple of Spotted Gum bows that were in the State both broke before I could beg a go. I was not impressed with the Osage, felt like a yard broom and massive vibrations. The Wych Elm is OK, but I elected to back it with buffalo hide because I was worried about a big knot in just the wrong place. It seems a tad sluggish. The 5-piece bamboo laminate is as sweet as a nut, but doesn't seem that fast. Finally I decided to try a compromise, and managed to pick up an ELB (sort of) in the States that is Pacific Yew heartwood backed with bamboo. It feels very snappy (in the quick sense). I've only been able to try it in the back yard, but the test will come at the range tomorrow, where I can compare it POA at distance with my other bows. I confess I'm quite intrigued to see how it matches up, particularly against my AFBs. I am wondering if any of you guys have any experience of Bamboo-backed Yew bows, and how they compare to the real thing. Would they be in the same league? Any input appreciated. Cheers